Food was all very good - we had the clams casino, kale salad, and beet salad to start, and staples like fish and chips and fried clams and spaghetti fra diavolo for entrees. After living in Northern California for the past 15 years, I am ecstatic about getting real fried clams in New England as opposed to chunks of tough batter with just a tiny taste of clams in them. Service was exceptionally warm and friendly. read more

Good oysters and good drinky poos. Weird back patio in a parking lot? But if you got kids it works so they can scream and yell. We don't like to disturb the dining room read more

The Marnier is a nice restaurant- always busy - indicating good food and service by Athena. The fish & chips ($28) were cooked perfectly and the fish was fresh & sweet. Nice crispy coating, excellent fries and slaw. Ice cold beer and wine. For the second entree had the lemon double fried wings ($16) which were excellent and 3 well shucked oysters along with three clams. All on a bed of shaved ice. An enjoyable meal - we will be back. read more

We made our way to The Mariner for a late lunch after spending much of our day at the Mystic Aquarium and the Olde Mistick Village. I really liked the ambiance of the space, it's quite comfortable and has a nautical aesthetic. We were sat in a cozy little corner by the window, a great spot for watching the bustling of the little seaside town. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable of the restaurant's offerings, noting in their introduction that the focus of the menu is on fresh local seafood, and that everything on the menu is freshly made in house. I was very eager to try a cup of the clam chowder for an appetizer since many other reviewers have said that it's some of the best they've ever tasted, and after trying it for myself I'm more than inclined to agree with them; it had a perfect consistency and excellent flavor. Boyfriend wanted the fried mozzarella so we got some of that, and that was pretty tasty as well. Boyfriend got the chicken parm sandwich for his meal and I got the fish and chips. I didn't end up trying the sandwich, but he said he liked it. My fish and chips plate was pretty good; the fish tasted just a tad under seasoned to me, however the flavorful tartar sauce helped with that and I could tell the fish itself was great quality. The hand cut fries were good, but I wasn't really a fan of the coleslaw. Overall we had a pleasant experience at The Mariner. A very good choice for fresh seafood and a relaxed vibe. I'm sure I'll be in town again at some point; if I come back to The Mariner, I'll make a point to get a bowl of the clam chowder instead of a cup, because that alone is absolutely worth returning for... but until then, I'll be dreaming about it. read more

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3.5 / 5 I come here every summer for a lobster roll and am never really disappointed. I opted for the catch of the day special this time and it was a mistake. Kind of just a bland piece of fluke, priced at a premium compared to the other dishes on the menu. Service was great as usual, unfortunately just left disappointed with my meal. read more

The Mariner - Fluke - catch of the day special - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

Very happy fun place! Yummy drinks and food and good service! Good wait staff, hard working oh wow they need a raise! read more

The Mariner - Mystic - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

Fresh food and good service, can't go wrong here. Music is not loud its good place to have conversation. The service is good and it's in beautiful Mystic. Enjoy. read more

The Mariner - Halibut - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

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Came here this evening with my friends for a ladies night out. The place is wonderful inside - spacious and comfortable. I also noticed that the noise level was low - the place wasn't full, but still sound didn't travel far so we could have a nice conversation without having to shout. Always a plus! I ordered the clam chowder and it was divine. It was also very filling. I also got the scallops with the squash risotto and it was cooked perfectly. The scallops were nice and tender and not chewy. The rice could have used a touch more salt for my liking but nothing the salt shaker couldn't fix. The waiter was super friendly and helpful and pleasant. He made us feel welcomed, The only reason why I don't give this restaurant 5 stars is because of their oysters and shrimp cocktail. The oysters were small and the shrimp were overcooked unfortunately. The shrimp cocktail is 4 shrimp and they were small for shrimp cocktail and chewy. All in all, I would recommend this place. Try the clam chowder and the seafood entrees! read more

The Mariner - Scallops on squash risotto - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

Like any clutter-hoarding entity hunched on the streets of Mystic, it just doesn't (and may never) get better. 10 months post-event from the first time I ate here, and somehow this place has not managed to improve despite several reworked regurgitations of the same ingredients. The Rigatoni ($28), a pasta with Bolognese in a cream emulsion, frozen in time due to its salt preservation technique, was indistinguishable in size from its appetizer counterparts. One example of such includes the Fried Calamari ($20), and the Fried Mozzarella ($15), both of which came under-seasoned and under-portioned in the vie for freshness and seashore "vibes", leading to a spectacular disgracement to its 'Mariner' title. It is unclear thus far into the lore who this restaurant is intended for. A romantic date where each party tries to look less hungry than the other? A local photographer trying to flaunt Shutterstock photos on its faux-wood bulkheads? Whoever the audience may be, it certainly does not include people looking for heartily assembled food, who also happen to be hungry. Of course, blame does not go without acknowledging my naivety of hoping a reliable cash cow in trigger-happy wealthy Mystic, would strive for improvement. Who am I to look for change where the money just isn't demanding any semblance of quality for what the ambience implies? read more

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This place is pretty decent overall. It's a lively atmosphere with friendly staff in the heart of downtown tourism. They do happy hour and have live tunes in the bar area. The menu is fairly priced for fresh seafood and with a great local beer selection on draft. The NE clam chowder = best I ever had in my life. Abundant with clams. Not overly potato-ridden. Not too heavy but rich with flavor. Scallops and corn risotto entree was pretty good, but the scallops lacked sweetness. The risotto stole the show. The lobster roll was decent sized and great fries, but again the meat wasn't super sweet or memorable. It's really luck of the draw with seafood sometimes. Would still return and recommend it as a more affordable option given the potion sizes provided + quick service. read more

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We did happy hour here two nights in a row. Some sweet oysters for 1.50/ea were a nice surprise as were the grilled Brussel sprouts! The wings were a hit as well. Even though it was quite busy, the servers kept up with the action! Not quite a dive bar but definitely not an upscale tourist place. read more

Third time trying this place and it was great once again. I've tried the filet tips, steak frites, prime rib, and a few other items and every single thing I've ordered has been pretty good. Service has also always been good as have the cocktails. Restaurant is right in the middle of downtown Mystic by the drawbridge which is a very nice location. Overall, no complaints and will likely be back again. read more

The Mariner - Steak Frites, Prime Rib Special, Caesar Salad - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

Delicious place for dinner! I kept it classic either clam chowder and a hot lobster roll. I also tried their lager which was very light and refreshing. The clam chowder is award winning and I don't doubt it. They really put the "chowder" in the same. I've never had such a hearty version. I will also say there was more clam in it than I've ever seen before. My lobster roll was delicious. There were very large chunks of lobster on top that could have used butter, but when you got to the middle it was perfect. The bread was amazing and the lobster was so flavorful. We were so full from everything I barely even touched my fries. The few I had were good though. Our waitress was very friendly and attentive. We had a reservation and were sat right away, even with the place being surprisingly busy for their last hour on a Thursday night. read more

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Great food and service. Service was friendly and attentive and the lobster roll was perfect read more

The Mariner - Lobster roll and strawberry spritz. Perfect together - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

Let's start with saying I should have written a review years ago the first time I was here. Luckily, for you, I went back and this is a summation of that visit! The server we had was phenomenal. The service was timely, accurate and was never awkward or rushed. The decor is fitting to the name and the location the nautical blue and white with amazing photos on the walls! Now let's get to the main event, the food! Calamari - 4.5 out of 5 (super fresh and not rubbery) Oysters - 5 out of 5 (local and sweet) Fried fish sammie - 4.5 out of 5 (flaky and perfectly cooked) The blood orange mocktail slaps! If I was not driving I'd want that with a shot of GIN! This place did not disappoint years ago and the quality is stellar today. Please do yourself a favor, GO! read more

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This was our dinner choice for our first visit to Mystic based on the positive reviews. Good seafood dishes, oysters were fresh and calamari was good. The service was attentive. read more

4.5 STARS!!!! 8/2/25: The Mariner is a great causal restaurant! Our wonderful server was Ingrid. We started out with a Cab.Sauvignon and beer. Water and bread were brought to the table. We both ordered chicken piccata. We thought it was the best chicken piccata ever! Dessert, we shared a delicious fresh berry shortcake. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. Best to make reservations for restaurants on the main drag in Mystic, Ct. Parking is hairy in Mystic Connecticut. Best to park in a lot. Unless, you just happen to be lucky and find someone leaving a street spot. Definitely looking forward to my next visit to "The Mariner". read more

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A Strong 4‑Star Review for The Mariner in Mystic, CT The Mariner continues to be one of Mystic's most reliable go‑tos, especially if you're chasing a genuinely great happy hour. It's the kind of spot where you can slip in after work, settle into the nautical‑cozy atmosphere, and feel like you've made the right choice before the first drink even hits the table. Happy Hour That Actually Feels Like a Deal The Mariner easily earns its reputation for having the best happy hour around. The drink specials are generous without feeling gimmicky, and the quality stays high even when the place gets busy. Whether you're grabbing a classic cocktail or a local pour, everything feels thoughtfully made and priced in a way that keeps you coming back. Food That Complements the Vibe The menu hits that sweet spot between comfort and coastal. Apps come out quickly, portions are solid, and the flavors are consistently good. It's the kind of lineup that pairs perfectly with the happy hour energy--nothing overly fussy, just well‑executed dishes that make lingering for "one more round" an easy decision. Atmosphere & Service The Mariner leans into its Mystic charm without overdoing it. Warm lighting, a relaxed crowd, and a staff that keeps things moving even during peak hours. Service is friendly and attentive, though occasionally the rush can slow things down a bit--nothing major, just enough to keep it from being a full five stars. Final Thoughts The Mariner is a standout in downtown Mystic, especially if you're hunting for the best happy hour in town. Great drinks, solid food, and a welcoming vibe make it a place you'll want to return to again and again. A strong four stars and an easy recommendation for locals and visitors alike. Cheers read more

Came here on a busy Saturday night with a reservation! While I highly recommend making a reservation because downtown my mistake can get very busy on weekend nights, we did see some groups walk in and not have super long waits. We ordered a ton of food to share. Oysters were fresh and delicious. The wedge salad was crispy and well dressed. The fried mozzarella was a reasonable portion and the red sauce it was served with was perfectly acidic. The clam chowder was absolutely amazing, they clearly have perfected their recipe and it was super well seasoned, and one of the best clam chowder I've ever had. The lobster roll was fine, not the best I've had but also not the worst. Overall, I would definitely come back here, and probably get a bowl of the clam chowder specifically because that really impressed me! read more

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Stopped in for a late lunch/early dinner on a Tuesday. Great food! Their award winning NE clam chowder did not disappoint. Also ordered the seared Ahi tuna with squash & eggplant caponata. The Ahi was fresh & seared perfectly. Was seated right away, they brought water and took my order promptly. The food came out coursed. Nice music was playing, but not too loud. They offered both indoor and outdoor seating, but I chose to sit inside. Highly recommend and would return. read more

The Mariner - Seared Ahi tuna w squash & eggplant caponata. Full disclosure, I took one bite of the Ahi before I took the picture. - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

We went here for lunch in a beautiful Sunday afternoon - I expected a big crowd based on their excellent Yelp ratings, but hardly anyone was there. The service was fine but the food was pretty awful . My fried clams were chewy and otherwise flavorless. My husband's Caesar salad was served over tired looking greens and looked pretty unappealing. With so little time to enjoy while traveling through Mystic, I regret that this restaurant left me with a poor impression. read more

Sat outside, which was a very fun view/experience. On the main street in historic Mystic. My server was very nice! I started with a cup of the clam chowder. The server said it was "award winning" -- and honestly, I agree. I think it was the best clam chowder I've ever had. Then, because it was my first night on the East Coast (visiting from Denver), I had to get a lobster roll. The quality of the lobster was awesome! But I imagined a lobster roll (any lobster roll) with a heaping amount of lobster, so much that it was spilling out. This was not the case... but again, it was such good quality, it was fine. The bun/bread that it was served in was delicious! Yet the fries served on the side were soggy, and really not that good. I would come here again, if/when visiting. And would 100% get the clam chowder! read more

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Ordered some takeout on a Sunday evening! Easy online ordering. Parking is always a little tricky in town but I was able to find a spot across the bridge and walk over. Inside is cute and really nice. The workers were friendly and able to guide me to the right spot. I ordered the crab cake, seared tuna, and baked haddock. The restaurant didn't have the seared tuna and so they gave me a call. They were able to substitute it out for a yellow tuna that was delicious. Loved everything! All delicious and well made with great flavors! Would definitely come back! read more

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We had such a great time here that I'm pretty sure this place is going on my "restaurants I brag about" list. The food was delicious, the service was on point, and the ambiance made us feel like we were in our classy era. We kicked things off with the peel-and-eat shrimp -- 30 of them. Yes, we counted. Yes, we finished them. No regrets. They were perfectly priced and absolutely delicious. Then came the lobster roll, which was so good it basically demanded its own round of applause. And the clam chowder? Fabulous. Creamy, cozy, and honestly, I'd like to swim in it. Overall: great food, great service, great vibes. 10/10, would return to eat another unreasonable amount of shrimp. read more

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I'm in Mystic for two reasons: clam chowder and lobster rolls... but I wouldn't return to The Mariner for either. Hot Lobster Roll ($32): Although the price was as expected, this lobster roll felt tiny. I would recommend walking a little further down Main St to get a hot lobster roll from Off the Hook instead. Clam Chowder ($9/$13): I saw so many reviews praising this chowder for being perfectly seasoned but I found it to be too salty and regretted getting the bowl instead of the cup. Although the food disappointed, the service was wonderfully attentive and our server was so friendly. read more

The Mariner - New England Clam Chowder (halfway finished before I remember to take a picture) - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

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I wish I would've gotten more pictures than the front and my beer because this place was really good. I had the grilled brussel sprouts and they were the best. I had the oysters and boy were they tasty. And finally the best was the clam chowder, to die for. Maggie was awesome, excellent service. She made sure I knew it was happy hour but it was almost over, so I was able to order most of my food from that menu. I loved the feel of the place, small but cozy. I highly recommend the restaurant. read more

The Mariner - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

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Food was excellent. Particularly the lobster roll and the best clam chowder that I have ever had. Service was very good.

We stopped for lunch at The Mariner on a day trip to Mystic. Our selection was initially based upon there being outdoor dining in a quick Yelp search. There are two sets of outdoor seating here: the cute front tables and a back patio facing a parking lot. Despite it not being waterfront dining, we found the front tables to be wonderful. We watched people go by and the lift bridge operate while we enjoyed our meal. Service was attentive and friendly. While all of the food was great, the stuffing on the Baked Stuffed Clams and Clam Chowder were outstanding. Also impressive was the Ritz cracker topped Haddock. Often times restaurants overcook this kind of dish, but here it was moist, flaky, and an overall standout. We would definitely return here. Don't let the lack of being on the waterfront mentally get in your way of trying this great spot or you will miss a real gem. read more

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came here for dinner on our first night at Mystic. we picked this place because there was outdoor seating so we could enjoy dinner with our four legged and 2 legged children. the town is definitely dog friendly. the waitress was very nice offer water for everyone. she was able to get my son a glass of milk. food was just okay. but it was a good night to have dinner locally. we saw the draw bridge go up a few times. read more

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We met some friends recently at The Mariner and we were all very happy with our experience. We arrived early for lunch so we grabbed a table quickly (before it got busy with the lunch crowd). Our server was very polite and very friendly. I got their lobster roll and it was delicious. It was full of flavor, not too heavy, just right..just light. My husband got the short rib chili and it was very good...a bit salty for my taste buds, but not bad....very cheesy and a bit heavy...it came with warm tortilla chips. A great place for a meal in Mystic. Not far from the bridge. read more

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We had a very good dinner here. Loved the vibe of the restaurant and luckily snagged some street parking a couple blocks away. My wife had the clam chowder to start and we shared some of the lemon pepper wings - both were stellar. Then came the fish and chips - I'm a huge fish and chips guy, and these were some good ones. Some of the best I've had in the northeast. Great service and people too. Excellent spot - highly recommended. We will be back! read more

The Mariner - Fish & chips - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

Fantastic service! We had both the clam chowder and the Cajun seafood chowder and both were fantastic! read more

The mariner was a wonderful experience with easy going vibes and good food... we tried a lobster roll for an appetizer delicious would def order again. Fish and chips were crispy and flavorful def a must try! read more

The Mariner - Fish & chips - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

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The Mariner is located right in the heart of Mystic. We stopped by for lunch on a weekend and were seated right away. But I can imagine depending on the time of day and time of year, this place gets quite busy. The menu boasts seafood starters, soups, salads, sandwiches as well as 'New England Classics' including the infamous lobster roll and some entree-type dishes. We tried the lobster roll and prime rib sandwich. Both were excellent. The horseradish and au jus accompanying the prime rib sandwich really made the meal. Overall, we had a great time and the service was quick. The only downside, albeit outside of the restaurant's control, is the hit or miss street parking in popular downtown Mystic. read more

The Mariner - Prime Rib French Dip - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

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Went for our 20 year anniversary dinner. Hubs had the seafood fra diavolo, I had the chicken parmigiana. Started with the Brussels sprouts appetizer. Everything was piping hot and Ingrid our server was just amazing. They even brought 2 cannolis to us to end the meal. Traffic on the other hand was awful so give yourself plenty of time to find a place to park! read more

Dare I say the best clam chowder in town?? Every dish at the Mariner is exceptional. I especially love the corn risotto with scallops. The seafood pasta was amazing. Any fish dish is a great choice. Oysters for days. And they even have bottled root beer, a personal favorite. Service and vibes are great. Right in the heart of Mystic. read more

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Out in Mystic CT, so many restaurants by the Seaport but this one stood out. Not much look from outside but they are known for Best Lobster Rolls not just in CT. Boy they were right. So delicious, the staff makes just as delicious with their hospital services making your stay just as inviting. Bit pricey $$ but worth every bite. read more

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My husband and I came to Mystic for a day trip, and we decided to try this place out. The ambiance was charming. We were seated very fast, and the staff were all very friendly. We loved every dish. The seafood platter was so fresh and delicious. It was an amazing dining experience. read more

The Mariner - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

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One of the many things I adore about Mystic CT, it's the abundance of delicious local eateries that one simply can't get enough of. The Mariner is surely one that climbs the charts with their warm ambience, friendly staff and impeccable service... and to mention, delicious food. This local eatery quickly became a staple and tradition for my annual visits to Mystic. Whether having a few drinks or there to dine, always a great experience. This most recent time, strictly there to have what I would boldly claim to be, the absolute best New England Clam Chowder I have ever tasted. Spoke so highly of it that other couples dining near us felt compelled to order their own. Also, huge points on their gorgeous & incredibly festive Christmas decorations. Tis the season. read more

The Mariner - Arguably the best Clam Chowder I've ever had - Seafood Near Me - Mystic, Connecticut

great atmosphere throughout the experience, our waitress was kind and attentive despite the restaurant being short staffed. Now, the food was great, but my issue is the portions. Mystic is a tourist town, but I would weigh other options for eateries in the area. We had a party of 5, and I ordered fried mozzarella as my entree, (categorized as a starter) and was served 2 fried mozzarell... If the main course portion is two, the table would've been served 2 for 5 people. This was $15 as well. I was left hungry but I would not order another, as I don't want to support scammers, so I'd highly recommend The engine room, across the drawbridge with exceptional food and frankly better prices. Don't waste your money! 3 stars read more